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Tag: military cooperation

  • Military cooperation — Cyprus, Greece and Israel Strengthen Military Cooperation at Jerusalem Summit

    Military cooperation — Cyprus, Greece and Israel Strengthen Military Cooperation at Jerusalem Summit

    military cooperation — Cyprus, Greece and Israel have agreed to deepen military ties, reflecting a shared commitment to enhance cooperation among their armed forces during the 10th trilateral summit in Jerusalem. The leaders of the three nations—President Nikos Christodoulides of Cyprus, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel—issued a joint declaration acknowledging the historic significance of this collaboration amid evolving regional dynamics.

    Military cooperation: Expanding Defence Collaboration

    In their declaration, the leaders highlighted the necessity of strengthening defence and military cooperation, which they view as vital in addressing security challenges across the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond. They agreed to hold annual summits and increase trilateral meetings at ministerial and working levels, further solidifying their partnership.

    Joint Military Initiatives

    Reports have emerged suggesting that Greece, Cyprus, and Israel are exploring the creation of a joint rapid response brigade. This initiative aims to safeguard their energy interests in the Eastern Mediterranean while countering Turkish claims in the region. However, the Cypriot Ministry of Defence has downplayed these reports, indicating that while discussions are ongoing, no formal plans have been established.

    Commitment to Security and Counter-Terrorism

    The summit underscored a unified stance against terrorism, with leaders pledging to enhance cooperation in security matters. They reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism financing and ensuring maritime security, which is crucial for protecting sea lanes and critical infrastructure from emerging threats. The establishment of the Maritime Cyber Security Centre of Excellence in Cyprus is expected to commence operations in 2026, aiming to bolster regional maritime security efforts.

    Humanitarian Efforts and Regional Stability

    The leaders also recognised the humanitarian contributions of Cyprus and Greece towards Gaza, particularly through the Amalthea maritime corridor. This initiative is coordinated with Israel and international partners to facilitate humanitarian aid effectively. They reiterated the importance of ensuring that such aid reaches civilians safely and is not misused by extremist groups.

    Emergency Preparedness Initiatives

    As part of their cooperation framework, Cyprus, Greece, and Israel have agreed to establish a trilateral working group focused on emergency preparedness and response. This group will facilitate rapid assistance during natural disasters. Additionally, plans are underway for creating a Cyprus Regional Aerial Firefighting Station, which aims to enhance the capabilities of the three nations in responding to environmental crises.

    Energy Collaboration and Infrastructure Projects

    The summit also highlighted the commitment to joint energy projects, including natural gas development and renewable energy initiatives. The leaders referenced the Great Sea Interconnector project and the recent 3+1 Energy Ministerial Summit, which included participation from the US, as pivotal steps towards promoting energy security in the region.

    Advancing Science and Technology Cooperation

    In a bid to foster innovation, the leaders agreed to strengthen trilateral cooperation in science and technology. This includes the establishment of a working group dedicated to artificial intelligence and joint research initiatives, aiming to enhance their capabilities in critical policy areas and high-performance computing.

    Deepening Cultural and Educational Ties

    Beyond military and technological collaboration, the nations expressed a desire to deepen cultural, educational, and academic exchanges. They have committed to accelerating existing agreements on environmental education and youth exchanges, recognising the importance of people-to-people ties in strengthening their partnership.

    Addressing Regional Challenges

    The leaders acknowledged the complexities of the regional landscape, including the ongoing dialogue between Israel and Lebanon. They reiterated their support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and stressed the importance of maintaining the status quo at the Holy Places in Jerusalem, underscoring the city’s significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

    As they look to the future, the leaders expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration. Christodoulides remarked on the reliability and resilience of their partnership, stating, “There are no limits to the prospects for cooperation between Cyprus, Greece, and Israel.” As the nations aim to solidify their commitments in defence, energy, and humanitarian efforts, their collaboration presents a strategic response to the challenges facing the region.

  • Cyprus-Israel Defence Talks Focus on Regional Security Cooperation

    Cyprus-Israel Defence Talks Focus on Regional Security Cooperation

    cyprus-israel defence — Cyprus-Israel defence discussions have centred on enhancing regional security and bilateral cooperation during Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas’s official visit to Israel. The talks, confirmed by the Cypriot defence ministry, occurred just ahead of Cyprus’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, set for the first half of 2026.

    Cyprus-israel defence: Strengthening Ties Amid Regional Challenges

    In discussions with his Israeli counterpart, Israel Katz, Palmas addressed the security dynamics not only in Cyprus but also in Israel and the broader Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East regions. This dialogue is part of ongoing efforts to bolster bilateral defence and security relationships between the two nations.

    Focus on European Unity and Stability

    Palmas articulated that Cyprus aims to leverage its EU presidency to foster European unity and enhance strategic stability in the eastern Mediterranean. The minister emphasised the importance of regional cooperation, stating, “During our presidency, we will encourage dialogue in areas of mutual interest, promoting peace, stability, and adherence to international law.” This commitment underscores the growing alignment in defence strategies between Cyprus and Israel.

    Recent Developments in Defence Cooperation

    Cypriot-Israeli defence ties have seen significant growth in recent years. Notably, Cyprus has procured the Barak MX air defence system from Israel, which is being delivered incrementally and is expected to be fully operational by the end of this year. This acquisition reflects a deeper military collaboration aimed at addressing shared security concerns.

    Palmas’s Visit and Engagements

    Palmas arrived in Israel on Monday and was slated to return to Cyprus late Tuesday afternoon. During his visit, he toured the Civil-Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) in Kiryat Gat, which serves as a hub for military and humanitarian operations related to the Gaza ceasefire. He met with Major General Patrick Frank, the director of the CMCC, to discuss ongoing stabilisation and relief efforts in the region.

    The Role of the Civil-Military Coordination Centre

    The CMCC was established in October 2025 following a peace agreement aimed at coordinating humanitarian and stabilisation efforts in Gaza. Currently, it hosts personnel from approximately 20 countries, including Cyprus, although specific numbers of Cypriot personnel and their roles remain undisclosed.

    Humanitarian Aid Oversight in Gaza

    Recent reports indicate that the CMCC has assumed oversight of humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip, with responsibilities previously held by Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories now diminished. An early November report noted that while Israel retains control over Gaza’s perimeter and entry of goods, the CMCC’s role has become more central to aid distribution.

    A US military official described the relationship between Israel and the CMCC as an integration of efforts, stating, “It is an integration. It is hand in glove. They [the Israelis] remain the hand, and the CMCC have become the glove over that hand.” This statement highlights the complexities of humanitarian operations in the region amid ongoing tensions.

    Prospects for Future Cooperation

    The discussions between Palmas and Katz set the stage for increased collaboration in the face of evolving security challenges, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. As Cyprus prepares for its EU presidency, the focus will be on fostering a unified approach to security in the eastern Mediterranean.

    With both nations committed to enhancing their bilateral ties, the potential for future joint initiatives appears promising. As the situation in the region continues to develop, the relationship between Cyprus and Israel may play a crucial role in promoting stability and security in an area marked by ongoing conflicts.

  • Mari naval — Cyprus and France Enhance Mari Naval Base for Permanent French Military Presence

    Mari naval — Cyprus and France Enhance Mari Naval Base for Permanent French Military Presence

    Cyprus and France have embarked on a significant upgrade of the Mari Naval Base, aimed at ensuring a permanent French military presence in the Eastern Mediterranean. This strategic initiative was formalised through a Strategic Declaration and an accompanying Action Plan for 2026–2030, signed during a visit by President Nikos Christodoulides to Paris.

    Mari naval: Strengthening Defence and Security Collaboration

    The primary focus of the agreement is on Defence and Security, encompassing two main elements: the enhancement of the Mari Naval Base and a substantial defence procurement deal. The upgraded facility will be capable of hosting large French warships, marking a pivotal expansion of military cooperation between the two nations.

    Major Defence Procurement Deal

    As part of the agreement, the French military industry will fulfil 85% of the defence equipment requested by Cyprus under the SAFE programme. This procurement is not merely a transaction; it mandates the involvement of Cypriot companies, stipulating a 15% share in the production of each programme. This provision is expected to result in significant knowledge transfer, bolstering the capabilities of the Cypriot National Guard, particularly in aerial assets and communications systems.

    A Comprehensive Roadmap for Cooperation

    Beyond military enhancements, the Strategic Declaration outlines a broad framework for collaboration across sixteen sectors. This shift from declarations to actionable policies is designed to foster a deeper partnership between Cyprus and France.

    Key Areas of Cooperation

    • Schengen Representation: France will represent Cyprus in 25 third countries, providing consular services related to Schengen visa issuance once Cyprus achieves full Schengen Area accession.
    • IMEC Corridor: The agreement highlights cooperation in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), recognising Cyprus as a vital hub that contributes to regional stability and interconnectivity.
    • Investment Opportunities: During the governmental meetings, a French company showed interest in making significant investments at Larnaca port, indicating potential economic benefits for Cyprus.
    • Sectoral Collaborations: The agreement also encompasses areas such as Civil Protection, Digital Policy, Public Health, Maritime Affairs, and Energy, including workshops on integrating renewable energy sources into national grids.

    Monitoring and Implementation

    The implementation of the Strategic Declaration and Action Plan will be overseen through annual high-level intergovernmental meetings involving senior officials from the two Foreign Ministries, as well as biennial meetings at the Ministerial level. This structured approach aims to ensure that the initiatives outlined in the agreement are effectively realised and managed.

    Long-Term Implications for Regional Stability

    The upgrade of the Mari Naval Base and the broader agreement signify a pivotal moment in the defence posture of Cyprus and France in the Eastern Mediterranean. By reinforcing military capabilities and enhancing bilateral cooperation, both nations are taking proactive steps towards ensuring regional security and stability.

    As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, this partnership may play a crucial role in addressing emerging challenges and fostering a collaborative approach to defence and security in a region of strategic importance.

  • Cyprus National Guard Completes MEDUSA-14/2025 Exercise in Egypt

    Cyprus National Guard Completes MEDUSA-14/2025 Exercise in Egypt

    The Cyprus National Guard has concluded its participation in the multinational exercise MEDUSA-14/2025, which took place in Alexandria, Egypt. This ten-day event involved various military units from Cyprus, Greece, France, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, focusing on enhancing cooperative operational capabilities.

    Photo: cyprus-mail.com

    Medusa-14: Multinational Collaboration

    During the exercise, forces from five nations came together to engage in a range of aeronautical operations. The Cyprus contingent included a submarine disaster team from the navy command, a special operations team, and the offshore patrol vessel “Ioannidis.” This vessel has a history of participation in similar exercises, underscoring its operational readiness.

    Final Phases and Leadership Participation

    The concluding phase of MEDUSA-14/2025 commenced on 16 November and culminated on Tuesday. Lieutenant General Emmanuel Theodorou, the newly appointed Chief of the National Guard, was present to oversee the final activities of the exercise, reflecting the importance of the event for Cyprus’s military strategy.

    A Focus on Coordination and Tactics

    The primary objective of the exercise was to enhance the coordination of multilateral actions at both operational and tactical levels. Such training is vital for ensuring that allied forces can effectively collaborate in real-world scenarios, promoting regional stability and security.

    Annual Tradition of MEDUSA Exercises

    MEDUSA is an annual military exercise typically held between October and November. Last year, the exercises were conducted in the maritime area of Crete, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement in joint military operations across the Mediterranean region.

  • Paphos airport — US Proposal Enhances Prospects for New Paphos Airport Road

    Paphos airport — US Proposal Enhances Prospects for New Paphos Airport Road

    A new proposal from the United States is set to boost the prospects of a new road connecting Paphos with its airport, according to high-level sources. This move comes after the originally planned route faced significant environmental challenges.

    Paphos airport: Navigating Environmental Challenges

    The proposed road’s initial design encountered obstacles primarily due to its intended crossing over the Ezousa river near its estuary, an area designated as a Natura 2000 protected site. Such environmental restrictions typically imply that the Cypriot government would face hefty fines from the European Union if the project proceeded without addressing these concerns.

    Public Interest Justification

    However, sources familiar with the proposal indicated that if an infrastructure project can be classified as being in the public interest or necessary for national security, the EU may waive these fines. This could allow the road’s construction to move forward without further environmental hindrances.

    In this case, the significance of the Andreas Papandreou airbase, located at the Paphos airport, plays a pivotal role in the proposal’s justification. The US aims to underscore the airbase’s importance to common security, thereby bolstering the argument for the road’s development.

    Extending Existing Infrastructure

    If approved, the new road will effectively extend Spyros Kyprianou avenue, which currently runs from the Kings Avenue Mall to the Ezousa river, directly to the airport. This extension is expected to enhance accessibility to the airport and facilitate increased traffic flow.

    Strengthening Defence Ties with the US

    This proposal is part of a broader effort as Cyprus strengthens its defence cooperation with the United States. Plans are underway for significant upgrades to the Andreas Papandreou airbase, estimated to cost between €10 million and €14 million. Earlier this year, President Nikos Christodoulides had hinted at potential US financial assistance for these upgrades, which also include enhancements to the Evangelos Florakis naval base in Mari.

    Financial Implications and Military Hardware

    Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas has indicated that upgrades at the Mari naval base could exceed €200 million. In parallel with these infrastructure improvements, military collaboration between Cyprus and the US has intensified. The US has authorised Cyprus to procure military hardware directly from the US government, a significant shift from previous arrangements where purchases could only be made through private companies.

    Benefits of Direct Purchases

    Inclusion in the US defence security cooperation agency’s foreign military sales (FMS) programme allows Cyprus to acquire military equipment at more competitive prices. This is because the US government typically purchases its military apparatus in bulk, making it possible to offer lower prices compared to private sector suppliers.

    Maintaining Sovereignty and Collaboration

    Despite the growing military ties, Palmas has emphasised that both the airbase in Paphos and the naval base in Mari remain “of Cypriot interest and Cypriot ownership.” He reassured that these facilities will not be transferred out of Cypriot hands, regardless of the collaboration with American and European forces. “We will continue to serve allies in terms of training, information exchange, and in broader missions, including the removal of their citizens from crisis areas,” Palmas stated.

    The Future of Paphos Infrastructure

    The potential construction of the new road to Paphos airport represents not only a logistical improvement but also a strategic enhancement in the context of Cyprus’s evolving role in regional security matters. As discussions continue, the impact of this proposal could resonate beyond infrastructure, influencing Cyprus’s geopolitical stance and its relationship with both the EU and the US.